Tottenham Hotspur: What to Think of Gareth Bale Transfer Rumors

Over the past few years, Tottenham supporters have surely become accustomed to transfer rumors surrounding Gareth Bale.

Ever since he made a name for himself on the Champions League stage against Inter Milan, much talk has surrounded the winger's possible departure from White Hart Lane.

Over the past few transfer windows, the 23-year-old has been linked with the likes of Real Madrid and Barcelona.

The heat of the speculation has only grown over the past few weeks, as the Welshman has hit a spell of consistent and incredible form, scoring five goals in his past four matches and the past four of Spurs' league goals.

With Bale's awesome skill and phenomenal pace obviously key to the future of Tottenham's success, it is an issue that supporters will want to follow. In fact, the Guardian is already reporting that Real Madrid is lining up a bid and all-out pursuit of Bale this summer.

So what should one think about the situation as the summer window looms?

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For some, it is quite easy to brush aside the rumors.

After all, the Welshman hasn't left in the past few windows despite the vast sums of money that his La Liga suitors have at their disposal, as well as the trophies and top competition they have to offer.

In short, the situation could seem a case of reporters crying wolf.

Further, while the club has had a habit of selling off their most valuable players for great deals of money (see Dimitar Berbatov and LukaModric), the club hasn't shown signs of caving in and selling Bale, nor has the player shown too many signs of looking for the exit.

Add in the financial instability of Spain and their giant clubs, and one can see the argument for Bale to stay at White Hart Lane.

However, while all of this evidence points to Bale staying, supporters should probably acknowledge the possibility of a deal this summer.

For someone as talented as Bale, moving to bigger clubs is the norm, as the player chases trophies and attempts to leave their mark on the sport.

Such a move makes even more sense for Bale, who is unlikely to achieve much glory on the international stage or even play in a World Cup (sorry, Wales).

Hence, it would be hard to begrudge Bale for a move to a giant club with a historic, trophy-winning pedigree and money bags to offer, especially if Spurs fail to qualify for next season's Champions League.

Considering the type of money that Tottenham can get for such a move and reinvest in the club, it is not difficult to see how Spurs might talk themselves into such a move.

So what's the verdict? Will the move happen? What should supporters want to happen this summer?

Will Bale be at Tottenham in 2013-14?

YesNoSubmit Votevote to see results

Will Bale be at Tottenham in 2013-14?

Yes

75.6%

No

24.4%

Total votes: 1,084

These are some difficult questions to answer right now, but time will certainly tell.

The wise fan, though, wouldn't worry too much about the ordeal.

Stories will certainly break and ridiculous rumors will surely spread, but only time will tell whether Bale will be at Spurs next season.

In the meantime, just enjoy Bale's incredible performances at Tottenham while they last.